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Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

It wouldn't be very long before Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel (1883–1971) wholly revolutionized women’s wear — and set the fashion world alight with an elegant but versatile little black dress — when she opened her first millinery shop. Chanel’s fluid fabrics for her coveted vintage evening dresses and gowns liberated the female form to enjoy the freedoms that burst upon the cultural scene following the austerity of World War I.

Initially creating hats at 21 rue Cambon in Paris in 1910 with seamstress support from her sister and her aunt, Chanel soon began to also sell clothing based solely on the kinds of garments she liked to wear.

Chanel's comfortable and practical designs encouraged women to leave extravagant clothes behind. She introduced a more casual, less constricting look, debuting uncomplicated skirts, jersey jackets and more in two additional boutiques by 1915. By the 1920s, magazines and notable clientele were lauding Chanel for her innovative couture fashion.

On 1stDibs, many classics from the House of Chanel are on offer — from the revered vintage Chanel mini dresses, gowns, day dresses and silk cocktail dresses that are today the subject of books and museum exhibitions to the celebrated collections created by Karl Lagerfeld, a legend of high fashion who worked to preserve the artistry of haute couture and revitalize the brand when he was appointed a designer at the house in the 1980s.

Because of his track record for reviving and reimagining brands that had grown stagnant, in 1984 Lagerfeld was handed the reins at Chanel, which had been gathering dust since its founder’s heyday. From his first collection, Lagerfeld injected the venerable house with a frisson of modernity. He riffed on its iconography — tweed skirt suits, pearls, camellias — accenting a lexicon of Chanel-isms with tastes of the moment.

Find vintage Chanel dresses of the '90s and other evening dresses and gowns for sale on 1stDibs.

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Designer: Chanel
Vintage Chanel Size 4 Black Silk Crepe Dress 1980s Rhinestone Pearl Buttons 80s
Vintage Chanel Size 4 Black Silk Crepe Dress 1980s Rhinestone Pearl Buttons 80s

Vintage Chanel Size 4 Black Silk Crepe Dress 1980s Rhinestone Pearl Buttons 80s

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in San Diego, CA

A refined and beautifully constructed Chanel black silk crepe dress from Fall/Winter 1988, designed during Karl Lagerfeld’s highly collectible late-80s era. This piece showcases Chan...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR
CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR

CHANEL 16K$ Paris / Edinburgh Museum Level Tweed Dress 36 FR

By Chanel

Located in Dubai, AE

CHANEL Paris / Edinburgh 2013 Haute Couture Tweed Dress ~ A Mastery Relic of the House — Museum-Level Artefact ~ Estimated boutique value: over $16,000. ~ A sacred text in ...

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress
CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE By KARL LAGERFELD F/W 2007 Runway Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Berlin, BE

Chanel Haute Couture by Karl Lagerfeld Couture Collection Fall Winter 2007 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Collection: Fall Winter 2007 Fabric: No fabric label, estimated - S...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Haute Couture Dress Spring 1974
Chanel Haute Couture Dress Spring 1974

Chanel Haute Couture Dress Spring 1974

By Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - Silk and organza dress embroidered with flowers in shades of orange. No size label or composition, it fits a 36FR. Haute Couture Spring-Summer 1974 collection. Condition: G...

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1970s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96
Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96

Documented Chanel By Karl Lagerfeld Runway Metallic Ribbed-Knit Maxi Dress, FW96

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Geneva, CH

Perfect for the inter-seasons, the color of this rare Fall-Winter 1996 Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld t-shirt maxi dress is reminiscent of the holiday season about to begin ! Its twin walk...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress
2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress

2007 Runway Documented Chanel Off-White Sequin Mini Dress

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This party-ready mini-dress walked the runway as part of Chanel’s Spring 2007 ready-to-wear collection (look 58/77). Vogue said of this 1960s-inspired collection, “It was up-tempo, l...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1979 Ivory Embellished Bow Evening Gown 2pcs Ensemble
Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1979 Ivory Embellished Bow Evening Gown 2pcs Ensemble

Chanel Haute Couture S/S 1979 Ivory Embellished Bow Evening Gown 2pcs Ensemble

By Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

Exceptional two-piece Chanel Haute Couture ensemble from 1979, composed of a floor-length sleeveless gown and a matching long coat. Crafted in a soft ivory silk, the set features exq...

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1970s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown
Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Black Lace Gown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Sharon, CT

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Collection Croisière '84. Black floral motif lace Evening Gown with pink satin sash, fully lined.

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Haute-Couture Chanel coat-dress pink wild silk
Haute-Couture Chanel coat-dress pink wild silk

Haute-Couture Chanel coat-dress pink wild silk

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Haute-Couture Chanel coat-dress shall numbered in pink wild silk and mother of pearl buttons

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1970s American Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Silk Chiffon Tiered Cocktail Dress by Lagerfeld
Chanel Silk Chiffon Tiered Cocktail Dress by Lagerfeld

Chanel Silk Chiffon Tiered Cocktail Dress by Lagerfeld

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Sharon, CT

Based on the classic Coco Chanel Tiered Cocktail Dress, Karl Lagerfeld's homage is printed with a transparent black repeated floral and CC logo pattern. EU appx size 36-38.

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset    Grand!
Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset    Grand!

Christian Lacroix Rare Runway Couture Jacket Blouse Ball Skirt, Corset Grand!

By Chanel, Christian Lacroix Paris

Located in Los Angeles, CA

In the early 80's Christian Lacroix was hailed as the new emerging designer of contemporary Haute Couture. And when he opened his own House in 1987 there was no doubt that his extrav...

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1990s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel
Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back Chanel

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Long evening dress with embroidered on lace and velvet back. Authenticity hologram

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001  FR 40
Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001  FR 40

Chanel champagne sequins dress F/W 2001 FR 40

By Chanel

Located in Rubiera, RE

CHANEL dress F/W 2001 collection A-line dress in beige melange tweed and champagne sequins; on the front martingale belt with logo buttons; short sleeve; zip on the back. Size Fr 40...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Black lace evening dress with white piping CHANEL
Black lace evening dress with white piping CHANEL

Black lace evening dress with white piping CHANEL

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

Black lace evening dress with white piping and white cotton lining. Lace composition: 52% cotton, 32% rayon, 16% nylon. Invisible zip on he middle back + hook&eye on the top middle ...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture
White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit Chanel Couture

By Chanel

Located in Saint-Ouen-Sur-Seine, FR

White lace embroidered wedding skirt suit. Shoulder pad and chain inside the jacket on the bottom edge. Branded buttons and pockets. Silk jacquard bra...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown
Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown

Rare Chanel Vintage S/S 1989 Grecian Goddess Ivory Gold Pleated Gown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

An ethereal and rare Chanel creation from the Spring/Summer 1989 collection, designed under Karl Lagerfeld’s direction. This gown embodies timeless elegance, drawing inspiration from...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black Sleeveless Coco Mark Zip Dress With Silk Cape circa 1994
Chanel Black Sleeveless Coco Mark Zip Dress With Silk Cape circa 1994

Chanel Black Sleeveless Coco Mark Zip Dress With Silk Cape circa 1994

By Chanel

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

Chanel Black Sleeveless Coco Mark Zip Dress with Silk Cape circa 1994 is a truly iconic piece that embodies the elegance and sophistication of 1990s high fashion. Crafted with meticu...

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Late 20th Century French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel dress fall 2007
Chanel dress fall 2007

Chanel dress fall 2007

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - (Made in France) Black crochet asymmetrical dress with a jersey slipdress. Size label missing, it fits a 36FR/38FR. 2007 Fall-Winter Ready-to-Wear Collection under the artis...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chic! Chanel 97c Karl Lagerfeld Cruise 1997 Black Evening Dress & Logo Buttons
Chic! Chanel 97c Karl Lagerfeld Cruise 1997 Black Evening Dress & Logo Buttons

Chic! Chanel 97c Karl Lagerfeld Cruise 1997 Black Evening Dress & Logo Buttons

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Алматинский Почтамт, KZ

Chic! Chanel 97c Karl Lagerfeld Cruise 1997 Black Evening Dress & Logo Buttons Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Collection: Chanel Cruise 1997 Country of production: France Chanel style: 97...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress
Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress

Rare Chanel Haute Couture F/W 1995 Green Bianchini Silk Lesage Beaded Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

A rare Chanel Haute Couture dress from Karl Lagerfeld’s Autumn/Winter 1995–1996 collection - an extraordinary piece of 1990s couture history. Worn on the runway by Trish Goff, this luminous chartreuse Bianchini silk chiffon dress is entirely hand-embroidered by Maison Lesage in vertical cascades of silver bugle beads. The empire-line cut with wide straps highlights the décolleté, while the layered chiffon construction gives the dress fluid movement and lightness. Accompanied by its original matching silk tulle stole with beaded ends, this ensemble offers versatility: the stole may be worn draped as a shawl or styled as a veil, making the dress an exquisite option for a modern bride seeking a couture alternative to tradition. The creation of this dress required over 450 hours of craftsmanship - 200 hours of atelier work and 250 hours of embroidery by Lesage. Provenance: The Mouna Ayoub...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Chanel Size 42 / 10 - 14 Black and White 2000s Cotton Knit Dress Y2K
Vintage Chanel Size 42 / 10 - 14 Black and White 2000s Cotton Knit Dress Y2K

Vintage Chanel Size 42 / 10 - 14 Black and White 2000s Cotton Knit Dress Y2K

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in San Diego, CA

Chic and classic Chanel, by Karl Lagerfeld, early 2000s black and white short sleeve knit dress. Soft cotton knit stretches to fit, and simply slips over the head. Silver logo CC met...

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Early 2000s Italian Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 2005 vintage black pointelle long sleeve dress
CHANEL 2005 vintage black pointelle long sleeve dress

CHANEL 2005 vintage black pointelle long sleeve dress

By Chanel

Located in Leonardo, NJ

Chanel 2005 Vintage Black Sheer sleeves Pointelle  Pleats One small repair to shoulder FR36 fits true to size, like an XXS/XS Measurements in inches laying flat: length 46, pit to pi...

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Early 2000s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL black silk SATIN SNAP BUTTON TRIM Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 40
CHANEL black silk SATIN SNAP BUTTON TRIM Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 40

CHANEL black silk SATIN SNAP BUTTON TRIM Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 40

By Chanel

Located in Zürich, CH

Chanel sheath dress in black silk (100%). With slit neck, snaps trims, and lace underlayer around the hemline. Closes with snaps on the front. Lined in black silk (100%). Has been wo...

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Early 2000s Unknown Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36
CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36

CHANEL black wool PLEATED Sleeveless Cocktail Dress 36

By Chanel

Located in Zürich, CH

Chanel sleeveless knee-length cocktail dress in back wool (100%) with top and bottom part in black silk (100%). Opens with four rhinestone buttons and a hidden zipper on the back. Li...

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Early 2000s Unknown Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel F/W 2003 Plum Silk Off the Shoulder Ruffle Dropped Waist Dress
Chanel F/W 2003 Plum Silk Off the Shoulder Ruffle Dropped Waist Dress

Chanel F/W 2003 Plum Silk Off the Shoulder Ruffle Dropped Waist Dress

By Chanel

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stun the fashion world with this sheer, silk Chanel F/W 2003 dress. A runway exclusive, it boasts an elegant off-the-shoulder ruffle design and a dropped waist silhouette. The delica...

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Early 2000s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s
Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s

Chanel Silk Charmeuse Ribbon Trim Cocktail Dress Circa 1990s

By Chanel

Located in University City, MO

Chanel Silk charmeuse ribbon trim cocktail dress c 1990s Size 34 The elegant Chanel black silk evening dress is designed with slit detail on both shoulders accented with black ribb...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS
CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS

By Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel

Located in Hong Kong, NT

CHANEL 09P white cotton blend chevron puff sleeve CC buttons knit dress FR34 XS Reference: SNKO/A00547 Brand: Chanel Designer: Karl Lagerfeld Collection: 09P Material: Cotton, Blend ...

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21st Century and Contemporary Italian Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip
Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip

Vintage Chanel Navy Bouclé Sheath Dress FR44 Chain Trim CC Logo Zip

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in San Diego, CA

Add a timeless vintage Chanel Fall 2012, by Karl Lagerfeld dress to your collection with this authentic Chanel navy blue bouclé tweed sheath dress, a true French couture classic. Cra...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel & Karl Lagerfeld 99P 1999 SPRING RTW silver dress with logo-embellished
Chanel & Karl Lagerfeld 99P 1999 SPRING RTW silver dress with logo-embellished

Chanel & Karl Lagerfeld 99P 1999 SPRING RTW silver dress with logo-embellished

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Алматинский Почтамт, KZ

Chanel & Karl Lagerfeld 99P 1999 SPRING READY-TO-WEAR silver dress with logo-embellished waist plaque Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel Collection: 1999 SS Country of production: France ...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Autumn/Winter 2005 Cream Wool Dress with Black Passimenterie Trim
Chanel Autumn/Winter 2005 Cream Wool Dress with Black Passimenterie Trim

Chanel Autumn/Winter 2005 Cream Wool Dress with Black Passimenterie Trim

By Chanel

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Classic and very chic Chanel shift dress from the Autumn/Winter 2005 collection. The dress was number 9 in the A/W 2005 show, that was inspired by the 1960s. The beautiful cream wool...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Chanel Black and White Halter Maxi Dress
Vintage Chanel Black and White Halter Maxi Dress

Vintage Chanel Black and White Halter Maxi Dress

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

1990s CHANEL black and white V neck halter maxi dress. Size: 4 / small Bust 34” / Waist : 26” Hip: open/ Dress length: 55”

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Combinaison transparent FR38 Black Silk Sheer Crepe Jumpsuit UK10 US8
Chanel Combinaison transparent FR38 Black Silk Sheer Crepe Jumpsuit UK10 US8

Chanel Combinaison transparent FR38 Black Silk Sheer Crepe Jumpsuit UK10 US8

By Chanel

Located in PARIS, FR

Chanel jumpsuit in probably black silk crepe, thin straps, slightly marked waist, flared leg ends with a ruffle on the side. No composition or size label, but the measurements indica...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

2000s CHANEL Navy Blue Silk Gown
2000s CHANEL Navy Blue Silk Gown

2000s CHANEL Navy Blue Silk Gown

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

2008 Chanel Silk Charmeuse navy blue silk gown. size 38 fit size 4

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Vintage S/S1997 Green Sequin Embellished Velvet Dress Gown Jacket 97P Set
Chanel Vintage S/S1997 Green Sequin Embellished Velvet Dress Gown Jacket 97P Set

Chanel Vintage S/S1997 Green Sequin Embellished Velvet Dress Gown Jacket 97P Set

By Chanel

Located in Jersey City, NJ

This luxurious ensemble is crafted from lush lime-green velvet and adorned with shimmering clear sequins that catch the light like fragments of broken glass. The maxi dress features ...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

CHANEL pre fall 2016 Paris Rome Long dress
CHANEL pre fall 2016 Paris Rome Long dress

CHANEL pre fall 2016 Paris Rome Long dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Rubiera, RE

CHANEL Collection Pre-fall 2016 Paris-Rome Long black silk and white lace dress with lace and jewels buttons. Long black silk sleeves with white lace cuffs, zip fastening Front faste...

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2010s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black and Creme Knit Dress
Chanel Black and Creme Knit Dress

Chanel Black and Creme Knit Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Chanel black and creme cap sleeves cashmere knit dress Marked size 42. Fit US 4/6 Small- Medium

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black Silk & Lace Mini Dress Cocktail Dress
Chanel Black Silk & Lace Mini Dress Cocktail Dress

Chanel Black Silk & Lace Mini Dress Cocktail Dress

By Chanel

Located in Studio City, CA

1980's Chanel black short-sleeved mini dress comprised of a medium weight silk fitted upper bodice, a horizontally ruched lace mid-section, a fitted waist made of gathered lace and a...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Metallic Pleated Long-Sleeve Dress
Chanel Metallic Pleated Long-Sleeve Dress

Chanel Metallic Pleated Long-Sleeve Dress

By Chanel

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

The Chanel Metallic Pleated Long-Sleeve Dress is a stunning example of high-fashion elegance infused with a contemporary edge. Crafted from shimmering silver metallic fabric, this dr...

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21st Century and Contemporary Italian Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Vintage Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Gown – Cruise 2000 Collection
Vintage Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Gown – Cruise 2000 Collection

Vintage Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Gown – Cruise 2000 Collection

By Chanel

Located in Montgomery, TX

Vintage Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld Gown – Cruise 2000 Collection A striking vintage gown from Chanel, designed by Karl Lagerfeld for the Cruise 2000 collection. This sculptural piece ...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves
1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves

1986 Runway Chanel Gold Black Silk Dress with Detachable Puff Sleeves

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This runway documented 1980s Chanel dress is an amazing example of how the chic French fashion house adapted to the era of excess. It walked the runway as part of the brand’s fall 19...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1990 Documented Chanel Black Satin Bow Shoulder Pleated Mini Dress
1990 Documented Chanel Black Satin Bow Shoulder Pleated Mini Dress

1990 Documented Chanel Black Satin Bow Shoulder Pleated Mini Dress

By Chanel

Located in London, GB

This documented mini-dress was made by Chanel for the Fall 1990 ready to wear collection. We have attached editorial shots of the advanced collection with a short sleeve version; th...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress
Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress

Chanel Black Silk Cocktail Dress

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in Sharon, CT

Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel designed 'little black dress' with black & white spaghetti straps. Lagerfeld continues Chanel's technique of crisscross piecing as a structural device. Met...

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Early 2000s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel evening dress Haute Couture 1979
Chanel evening dress Haute Couture 1979

Chanel evening dress Haute Couture 1979

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

CHANEL - (Made in France) Evening set composed of a dress and a cape. The bustier dress is embroidered with multicolored boteh pattern on muslin. Straps embroidered with pearls, and ...

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1970s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

New Chanel Cruise 2013 Runway Gold Brocade Leather Trimmed Open Back Dress
New Chanel Cruise 2013 Runway Gold Brocade Leather Trimmed Open Back Dress

New Chanel Cruise 2013 Runway Gold Brocade Leather Trimmed Open Back Dress

By Chanel

Located in Naples, FL

NEW CHANEL RUNWAY BROCADE LEATHER TRIMMED DRESS FR 36 Look 28 from the Cruise 2013 Runway. Metallic Chanel brocade sleeveless mini dress with suede trim, scoop neck, buckle accents ...

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Evening Dress Haute Couture with Blue Sequins, 2012
Chanel Evening Dress Haute Couture with Blue Sequins, 2012

Chanel Evening Dress Haute Couture with Blue Sequins, 2012

By Chanel, Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

Chanel - Navy-blue silk gazar evening dress embroidered with blue sequins, pearls, rhinestones, and glass paste. No size indicated, it fits a 40FR. Piece with a Bolduc number. 2012 S...

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2010s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt
1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt

1990s Chanel Collection 18 Black Chiffon Gown with Gold Chain Belt

By Chanel

Located in Toronto, Ontario

Chanel Grecian inspired gown from the 1990s, collection 18. Pleated black silk chiffon with black cut velvet 1.5" thick straps. V neckline with an empire w...

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1990s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel S/S 2009 pearl embellished dress
Chanel S/S 2009 pearl embellished dress

Chanel S/S 2009 pearl embellished dress

By Chanel

Located in PARIS, FR

Rare Chanel Spring Summer 2009 pearl embellished dress, piece of art, it can fit US 0 up to US 4 size tag was cut, (34 up to 38 FR) very good condition only few wear on the armpits

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Early 2000s Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld black silk taffeta evening dress, ss 1986
Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld black silk taffeta evening dress, ss 1986

Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld black silk taffeta evening dress, ss 1986

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in London, GB

▪ Chanel evening dress ▪ Creative Director: Karl Lagerfeld ▪ Spring-Summer 1986 ▪ Constructed from black silk taffeta ▪ Fitted bodice with horizontal pleats ▪ Asymmetric draped sho...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel Lace Striped Camellia Empire Dress S/S 1988
Chanel Lace Striped Camellia Empire Dress S/S 1988

Chanel Lace Striped Camellia Empire Dress S/S 1988

By Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, Chanel

Located in Boca Raton, FL

In addition to other signature design details, the camellia flower is another symbol of Chanel. Supposedly her favorite flower, some say due to being given a bouquet by a lover while...

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1980s French Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns

Chanel evening dresses and gowns for sale on 1stDibs

1stDibs offers an extraordinary range of authentic Chanel evening dresses and gowns. " If you’re browsing our collection of unique vintage and designer fashion to elevate your daily look or to introduce new colors to the dazzling formal wear in your wardrobe, this designer’s body of work includes elements of purple, red, blue and other tones. Customers interested in this designer might also find the work of Azzedine Alaïa, Versace and Yves Saint Laurent appealing. Find Chanel evening dresses and gowns from top boutiques around the world on 1stDibs, vintage and haute couture. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $399 and tops out at $67,430, while the average work can sell for $2,297..

Shop Vintage and Designer Evening Dresses and Gowns on 1stDibs

With entire museum exhibitions dedicated to examining fashion designers and their creations, we’re finally recognizing that costuming is art. Fashion is a powerful means of self-expression, and sophisticated vintage evening dresses and gowns by our favorite couturier play no small role in making us feel wonderful but, perhaps more importantly, making us feel like ourselves.

Evening dresses over time have conveyed specific statements about social class, position and beliefs. In the 16th century, dresses and gowns were so important that England's Queen Elizabeth I defined rules about what dresses women could wear — guidance included long skirts and fitted bodices. Forward-thinking designers have responded to this history.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel reimagined traditionally masculine garments for feminine shapes, and her elegant evening dresses and gowns promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by layers of fabric. French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent introduced innovative and highly coveted dress designs in the 1960s while at the same time challenging sexist stereotypes about which members of society could wear tuxedos. Works by unconventional British designer John Galliano — featured in houses like Givenchy and Dior — redefined limits that dressmakers faced in terms of material, construction and vision during the late 20th century.

Today’s designers target an increasingly broad audience with their boundary-crossing work, and their tendency to play off of each other’s ideas means that every walk down the runway is also a walk through an entire history of fashion design and dress craftsmanship.

Whether you gravitate toward backless maxi dresses or silk charmeuse gowns by Alexander McQueen or embellished, ruffled floral-print designs by Chloe or Versace, there is an extraordinary collection of vintage and designer evening dresses and gowns waiting for you on 1stDibs.

Questions About Chanel Evening Dresses and Gowns
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The value of Chanel bags has been steadily increasing for years. This is because each year, they make a “limited run,” which means that there are only so many available to purchase from the Chanel store or expertly vetted platforms from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The cost of a Chanel purse depends on its material, rarity, style and condition. On 1stDibs.com, you can purchase a Chanel purse starting from $280.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    There are 310 Chanel boutiques located across the globe; 94 in Asia, 70 in Europe, 10 in the Middle East, 127 in North America, 2 in South America and 6 in Oceania. In addition to the Chanel boutiques, there are many authorized retailers of the Chanel line. Find a collection of expertly vetted Chanel fashions, accessories, and handbags from some of the world’s top reputable boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel is so expensive because it is a top-class designer brand which creates their products from quality raw materials and high production methods while employing some of the top talent in the fashion world. The brand's innovative designs along with its creative marketing strategy make Chanel a highly coveted brand.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel was founded in 1910 by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, a French fashion designer who opened a hat boutique in Paris that year. Chanel went on to transform women’s fashion with revolutionary and elegant designs that tore down gender boundaries and freed women from the confining fashions of the day. Find vintage and contemporary Chanel bags, clothing and accessories from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel Mademoiselle perfume smells like orange, jasmine, rose, patchouli and vetiver. It is quite a bold and fresh scent.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel bags are made in France and Italy. The contemporary version of Chanel’s 11.12 bag, for instance, starts its life in a small factory in Verneuil-en-Halatte, located 90 minutes north of Paris, where the pieces of lambskin are cut by artisans with six years of training. The pieces are sent to Paris, where embroiderers spend a week embellishing the components, incorporating slight variations that make each bag a one-of-a-kind piece. Then, the leather pieces are shipped back to Verneuil, where craftspeople assemble them by hand into the iconic rectangular shape, complete with intricate piping and beading. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Chanel bags from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    All of Chanel's fine jewelry is made with 18K Gold (both yellow and white) and platinum and all of the diamonds used have very high clarity and color with a perfect set, resulting in some of the highest quality jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Although some Chanel jewelry contains real freshwater pearls, much of their costume jewelry is made from coated glass, though they are still high quality.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel Matelasse is a quilted Chanel bag. It's an emblem of the Chanel brand. Chanel Matelasse bags and other Chanel bags can be found on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Chanel No. 5 smells like a subtle mix of florals, including rose, ylang-ylang, jasmine, lily of the valley and iris, sandalwood, and a hint of vanilla. Chanel No. 5 is one of the most popular scents in the world.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Although costume jewelry is usually more affordable because many Chanel costume pieces have a timeless style as well as good craftsmanship, they hold their value and so can be sold at an expensive price.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Chanel is a luxury French fashion house founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in 1910. Focused on women’s ready-to-wear clothing and haute couture, Chanel is most famous for the 1921 perfume Chanel No. 5, the 1925 Chanel Suit and the iconic 1926 little black dress, which remains a staple in women’s closets around the world to this day. Shop a collection of vintage and designer Chanel pieces from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Depending on the bag's material, a vintage Chanel can be quite expensive. For instance, a vintage crocodile top handle bag costs around $130,000. The classic quilted leather bag is around $10,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    The latest prices for the Chanel wallet on chain is $3,100. There are many variations of this classic design, with some selling for closer to $2,100.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Yes, Chanel is one of the most desirable luxury brands in the world. This top-class designer brand creates their products from quality raw materials and high production methods while employing some of the best-known talent in the fashion world. Find many Chanel accessories and apparel on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    A Chanel tote's price can vary on the second depending on size, model, condition, and age. New Chanel small clutches start at around $1,900 while totes and other purses fetch $4,000-$5,000.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    Chanel sells a variety of items. The French luxury fashion house offers ready-to-wear apparel, shoes, jewelry, watches, eyewear, fragrances, cosmetics and skin care products. In addition, Chanel is well known for its small leather goods and bags, such as its iconic 2.55 Flap Bag. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Chanel apparel and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Chanel Reissue 2.55 is the updated version of the classic Chanel 2.55 handbag. Inspired by Coco Chanel’s original design from 1955, the Reissue 2.55 was released in 2005 as a homage to the original. The reissued version is considered more modern in design with slight modifications in the lock, leather, handle and flaps. Shop a wide range of the Chanel classic 2.55 and the Reissue 2.55 on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJune 7, 2024
    The designer at Chanel was Virginie Viard until she stepped away from her role in June of 2024. Viard started as an intern at Chanel in 1987 and became creative director Karl Lagerfeld’s “right arm and my left arm” according to Lagerfeld, who injected Chanel with a frisson of modernity from his first collection at the venerable brand.

    In addition to a five-year stint at Chloé, Viard worked as Lagerfeld’s Chanel studio director until his death in 2019, after which she was named his successor as creative director. Viard’s French bohemian style revisits the past, but always with a fresh eye.

    Viard's successor had yet to be named as of June 2024.

    Find vintage Chanel handbags, evening dresses, jackets and other clothing for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel iridescent is a type of material used by the French luxury fashion house Chanel to produce handbags and other accessories. It is a type of calfskin with a shimmery finish. You'll find a large collection of Chanel bags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel is owned by Alain Wertheimer and Gérard Wertheimer. They are the grandsons of Pierre Wertheimer, the business partner of Coco Chanel, who founded the luxury fashion house in 1909. Shop a wide range of Chanel apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel is manufactured in a number of locations. The French luxury fashion house has factories in France, Italy and Spain. Their sunglasses come from a factory in Italy. You can find a large selection of Chanel apparel and accessories on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 4, 2022
    Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Chanel in France in 1883, was a fashion designer who got her nickname during her short-lived career as a cabaret singer. In 1910, she opened a boutique in Paris to sell her hats, which were beloved by the popular French actresses of the era. Her success with hats led her to open the first Chanel Couture House five years later, where she designed and sold women’s sportswear made of jersey — which until then was used to make men’s underwear. Her revolutionary style catapulted her to fame, and in the decades that followed, Coco Chanel remained on the cutting edge of fashion, creating modern, timeless clothing, perfumes and accessories — and, of course, her iconic bags, which are revered to this day. Shop a collection of Chanel from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel is the founder of Chanel. She established her first shop in 1910 in Paris on rue Cambon, and her boutique drew the attention of the Parisian fashion elite, who popularized her wide-brimmed Chanel Modes hats. Coco opened a sportswear store in the Normandy resort town of Deauville, where she set the tone for her defining sense of style—traditionally masculine garments reimagined for feminine shapes, made from simple jersey fabric. Chanel would go on to become famous for introducing the first-ever handbag to feature a shoulder strap and the little black dress. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel apparel, bags and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The term Chanel Deauville refers to one of a number of bags produced by the French luxury fashion house Chanel. The most well known is the tote bag emblazoned with the Chanel logo. In addition, the brand produced backpacks, bowling bags and makeup bags with a similar logo design. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel Deauville bags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 31, 2023
    Chanel is known for its fashion accessories and trailblazing clothing designs, which first appeared in the early 1900s and promoted comfort and grace in women’s wear that had been dominated in the previous century by complicated layers of fabric and cumbersome corsets. Chanel handbags and purses are some of the most well-known and sought-after accessories in the world. With a subtle and chic aesthetic, many of the legendary French house’s crossbody bags, shoulder bags, tote bags and other bags are popular among celebrities and fashion obsessives. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel clothing, jewelry and accessories.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Chanel'S leather bags are the most durable compared to others. Standing the test of time and heavy-duty nature even when soft to the touch. From Chanel's quilted flaps to small leather goods, on 1stDibs, find a variety of authentic pieces from Chanel.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
    No, you can't scan a Chanel microchip on your own. The security feature uses proprietary coding technology that QR readers on mobile phones can't read. Only associates at Chanel boutiques have the equipment necessary to read the microchips. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Chanel pieces from some of the world's top boutiques.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    No, not all Chanel jackets have a chain, however, there are a few styles that do. These styles feature a chain as an ornamental detail or to help weigh down the jacket for a specific drape. Shop a collection of authentic Chanel jackets from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
    Yes, Chanel bags have names. The brand's iconic flap bag is known as the Chanel 2.55, and the redesign of this bag created by Karl Lagerfeld is the Chanel Classic or Chanel 11.12. Names of other Chanel bags include the Boy, the Gabrielle, the Wallet on Chain and the Grand Shopping Tote or GST. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of Chanel bags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To authenticate Chanel hardware, consider the weight. Real Chanel hardware is heavy solid metal. In fact, chain straps and fasteners were 24-karat gold until 2008. Flimsy lightweight metal or plastic is unlikely to be real. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of expertly vetted Chanel bags.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023
    Yes, you can order directly from the Chanel website. However, not all styles are available online, as some are exclusive to Chanel boutiques or certain authorized third-party brick-and-mortar retailers. You can also find Chanel apparel, bags, jewelry and accessories on a number of reputable online platforms. Shop a large collection of Chanel pieces on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 4, 2024
    Yes, you can buy Chanel online. Not every Chanel product, however, is available through the brand's official website.

    While Chanel fragrances can be purchased at the brand's site, Chanel clothing, bags and accessories are not available for purchase directly through the company online. Auction sites and luxury resale platforms sell both vintage and new Chanel bags and other items, but authenticity is always a concern when buying online, so it's important to purchase from a reputable seller that properly vets the origin and authenticity of your items.

    An authentic Chanel bag sold online will never be cheap, but a high price tag doesn't necessarily mean it's the real thing. Find a collection of authentic Chanel evening dresses, tote bags and other pieces from some of the world's top boutiques on 1stDibs.

  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    Yes, Chanel makes heels. In fact, the French luxury fashion house was the first to design two-tone heels. These groundbreaking pumps debuted in the 1960s and featured a black pointed contrast toe and stiletto heels that were just under 2 inches tall. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Chanel heels.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023
    Yes, Chanel does have a crossbody bag. In fact, part of the appeal of Chanel bags is that many of them are suitable for both on-shoulder and across-the-body wear. The Wallet on Chain in any size is a great example. The Mini and Small sizes of many iconic Chanel bags are also commonly worn crossbody. Examples include the Chanel Boy Bag, the Chanel Classic Flap and the Chanel 19. Shop a wide range of Chanel crossbody bags on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 4, 2024
    Yes, Chanel has made bedding. Long after it established itself as a pioneering fashion label, the French luxury brand eventually expanded into home accessories and decor. Throw blankets, pillows and other goods for the home have been a part of its offerings over the years.

    The legendary designer and entrepreneur Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel was very fond of well-appointed interiors. "Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only," she said.

    A private apartment for the designer that occupied a floor at 31 rue Cambon in Paris, the building that housed her first boutique, was home to decorative screens, bookshelves filled with books (Chanel was an avid reader), Louis XIV furniture, beige carpets and a sofa of her own design.

    A home built by architect Robert Streitz called La Pausa, located in a sizable detached villa in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France, was designed by Chanel and based on the convent-orphanage she lived in as a child. Chanel also created the interiors, reportedly with support from celebrated French designer Stéphane Boudin of Maison Jansen.

    Find vintage Chanel blankets and other home accessories on 1stDibs.